DEVELOPMENT SPECIALIST
From $60,000/yr.
Full-time
Who We Are
The Michigan Animal Rescue League (MARL) is one of southeast Michigan’s most established animal welfare organizations, serving the community since 1953. Our history and experience combined with constant evaluation of trends in animal welfare and sheltering have made us a necessary and respected asset within our community. As “A Different Breed of Shelter” we challenge the stereotypes of traditional animal shelters and believe that the “Quality of the Wait” can make all the difference in the future of an animal. MARL provides life-saving care to over 1,500 dogs and cats annually.
Why Join Our Team
At MARL we foster a vibrant team environment where collaboration, support, and a shared passion for animal welfare aren’t just words – we live it every day and it drives our success. Join us in our mission to make a meaningful difference in the lives of animals and our community through great work and collective achievements.
- Competitive salary
- Competitive Medical and Dental Insurance
- 403(b) Retirement Savings Account with Match
- Employee Assistance Program
- Remote/In-Office Flexibility
- Focus on Work-life Balance and Potential for Flexible Working Hours
- Generous Paid Time Off
- Discounted Veterinary Care for Your Pets
- Opportunities for Professional Development, Growth, and Continuing education
- A Truly Positive and Collaborative Work Environment
- Free or Discounted Adoption Fees
Overview
Michigan Animal Rescue League (MARL) is seeking a dedicated Development Specialist to join our dynamic team. The Development Specialist will play a vital role in supporting donor relations activities, fundraising efforts, database management and managing ongoing logistics to support the Executive Director. This is a new role within MARL, and we’re seeking an individual who can take ownership and drive significant impact in its development. This position offers a special opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of animals and contribute to the growth and sustainability of our organization.
Responsibilities
- Manage and maintain donor database, ensuring accurate and up-to-date records of donor information, interactions, and contributions.
- Generate development reports and analytics to track fundraising progress, donor trends, campaign effectiveness and identify opportunities to inform annual and long-range planning.
- Coordinate and execute fundraising appeals, including direct mail, email campaigns, and online giving initiatives.
- Draft compelling donor acknowledgments and stewardship communications to express gratitude and cultivate donor relationships.
- Assist in scheduling meetings and managing communication on behalf of the Executive Director with donors, stakeholders, and community partners.
- Collaborate with the MARL team to assist with development related tasks associated with fundraising events, donor cultivation activities, and stewardship initiatives.
- Provide administrative support for development activities, including maintaining filing systems, preparing materials for meetings, updating materials and managing correspondence.
- Engage board, development committee, and other leadership volunteers in various aspects of major gift fundraising.
Preferred Knowledge/Skills/Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as nonprofit management, business administration, communications, or a related discipline.
- Proven track record of success in nonprofit fundraising, donor relations, and development strategies, with at least four years of experience in a similar role.
- Comprehensive understanding of fundraising principles, techniques, and best practices, including donor cultivation and stewardship.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to effectively engage and cultivate relationships with donors, board members, volunteers, and other stakeholders.
- Experience in developing and implementing strategic fundraising plans to achieve organizational goals and objectives.
- Familiarity with fundraising software and CRM systems (MARL uses Donor Perfect), with the ability to effectively utilize technology to support fundraising efforts and donor management.
- Ability to work independently, manage multiple projects simultaneously, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
- Knowledge of relevant legal and ethical guidelines related to fundraising and donor solicitation.
- Passion for the mission and values of the organization, with a commitment to advancing its goals and objectives through effective fundraising and development initiatives.
To be considered for the position of Development Specialist, please email a resume and cover letter to employment@marl.org
The Michigan Animal Rescue League is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
We actively seek candidates from diverse backgrounds to join our team and support our mission of providing compassionate care to animals in need. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to these protected characteristics.